BoF 500 Gala 2024: Filipinos Seen and Heard is a Move Toward True Recognition
Hosted by founder Imran Amed at Paris Fashion Week, the BoF 500 Gala 2024 was attended by Filipinos whose ingenuity and influence reinforced their presence in fashion
Fashion may be an industry defined by the bold and the beautiful, but behind the scenes lies the undeniable contribution of those whose creativity, innovation, and leadership drive it forward. Founded by critical thinker, commentator, and Editor-in-Chief Imran Amed since 2013, the BoF (Business of Fashion) 500 Gala has celebrated these individuals, underlining those shaping the industry’s future. For Filipinos present at this event, it’s not only about recognition—it’s about being truly valued.
Pinoy Power
At this year’s Gala during Paris Fashion Week, the Philippines was well-represented among the elite of the global fashion community. With attendees like Heart Evangelista, Pia Wurtzbach, Zoe Santiago, Shay Mitchell, Revolve and FWRD Chief Brand Officer Raissa Gerona, AGC Power Holdings Corp. CEO Archie Carrasco and VP for Business Development Randolf Palanca, Vogue Philippines Editor-in-Chief Bea Valdes and Fashion Director Pam Quiñones, and BryanBoy, the presence of Filipinos was palpable.
Three Filipinos—BryanBoy, Mark Jappy Gonzales, and Stephen Gan—made it to the official BoF 500 list, a reminder that Filipinos are making a mark in the global industry and more are ready to take a seat at the table.
Coming Together
Moreover, guests included designers Ludovic De Saint Sernin, Marine Serre, Pelagia Kolotouros, Harris Reed, Giovanna Battaglia Engelbert, Amina Muaddi, Damiano David, and Zac Posen, and muses such as Coco Rocha, Ashley Graham, Hari Nef, Alex Consani, Greta Lee, Ayo Edebiri, Colman Domingo, Bright Vachirawit, Dove Cameron, Lucky Blue Smith and Nara Aziza Smith, Jared Leto, and Davika Hoorne.
The BoF 500 Class of 2024 features individuals from 37 nationalities across 26 countries, including first-time entrants from underrepresented nations. Among them are Thomas Plantega, recognized for transforming the resale platform Vinted, Faraz Manan, a Pakistani bridal designer based in Dubai, and Maryse Mbonyumutwa, founder of Asantii and Pink Mango, who built a sourcing hub in Rwanda. New members also include Polish movement director Pat Boguslawski and German model Leon Dame, known for their roles in Maison Margiela’s viral show, alongside media figures like French-Algerian narrator Lyas, TikTok sensation Tanner Leatherstein, podcaster Recho Omondi, and menswear critic Derek Guy. Notable executives such as Gap Inc’s Richard Dickson and Abercrombie & Fitch’s Fran Horowitz are recognized for their business achievements, while agitators like Nicole Rycroft of Canopy push for a more sustainable fashion industry.
Behind The Seams
For too long, Filipino creatives have contributed to the global conversation without being given full recognition for their work. The platform of the BoF 500 Gala is a moment to reflect on how we can move beyond just being noticed. Filipinos have much to offer—whether in arts, design, or business—and we deserve to be acknowledged for the depth and impact of our contributions.
While fashion industries in countries like the US, France, and Italy are built on vast resources and institutional support, Filipinos have learned to work with less—relying instead on boundless creativity, innovation, and an unmatched work ethic. When given the tools, we don’t just use them; we transform them with our culture, experiences, and passion, creating work that is felt at every level. The Filipino spirit, after all, is driven by a desire to be seen, heard, and experienced.
This year, BOF’s commitment to independent designers and entrepreneurs was demonstrated through its partnership with Shop with Google, exploring how technology can further support businesses in fashion. The initiative is a reminder that even the most successful designers, like The Attico’s Gilda Ambrosio and Giorgia Tordini, have had to build their brands on resilience and creativity—values Filipinos know all too well.
True Recognition
The BoF 500 Gala, for the Filipino creative, represents an opportunity to be part of the conversation about the future of fashion, one that we are fully capable of influencing. But it doesn’t stop at being invited to these events or being featured in exclusive lists. The real work lies in building our local industry with the same drive, offering the next generation of Filipino creatives the resources and platforms they deserve to thrive not just globally, but here at home.
The Filipino is more than just a participant in fashion’s global scene. We are key players in its future, bringing heart, soul, and vision to everything we create. The question now is how we can use the lessons learned from international exposure to elevate our own industry and continue making our presence felt—because the Filipino is, without a doubt, worth recognizing.
Photos: GETTY IMAGES FOR THE BUSINESS OF FASHION
The post BoF 500 Gala 2024: Filipinos Seen and Heard is a Move Toward True Recognition appeared first on MEGA.BoF 500 Gala 2024: Filipinos Seen and Heard is a Move Toward True Recognition
Trending Updates Central
No comments: